India–BRICS Trade Dynamics: An intensity-based Empirical assessment (2001–2020)
S. Vijayalakshmi1* and B. Mathavan2
1*,2Department of Economics, Faculty of Arts, Annamalai University, Annamalai Nagar, Chidambaram – 608002 (India) Contact details of Authors: 1*S. Vijayalakshmi – 9488082453 ORCID ID:https://orcid.org/0009-0001-1766-4271 2B. Mathavan – 9042218660 ORCID ID: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-9908-8994 Address for Correspondence : S. Vijayalakshmi Ph.D. Research Scholar, Department of Economics, Faculty of Arts, Annamalai Nagar, Chidambaram, Annamalai University, Tamil Nadu – 608002 (India) Email: svcollege01@gmail.com
ABSTRACT
This study examines India’s trade performance with BRICS countries—Brazil, Russia, China, and South Africa—over the period 2001 to 2020, focusing on whether India’s trade engagement with these partners met its potential as measured by standard trade intensity indices. By applying the Export Intensity Index (XII), Import Intensity Index (MII), and Trade Intensity Index (TII), the paper evaluates whether India’s trade flows with BRICS countries exceeded or fell short of global trade expectations. The findings reveal that India’s trade intensity with each of the BRICS partners remained below the benchmark value of 1 throughout the period, suggesting unrealized trade potential despite growing diplomatic and institutional ties. Notably, South Africa emerged as India’s most consistent and improving trade partner, while trade intensity with China and Russia declined. This study provides a comprehensive, data-driven insight into India’s role within the BRICS trade framework and suggests policy measures to strengthen regional economic integration.